La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway

If you’re looking to combine a bit of adventure with a deep dive into prehistoric Los Angeles, the La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway offers a compelling way to do just that. For about two hours, you’ll glide effortlessly around one of the city’s most iconic archaeological sites, learning about the Ice Age creatures entombed in asphalt while enjoying a lively, guided experience. This tour is perfect for those who want to see LA through a different lens, combining fun, fitness, and fascinating history all in one.

What truly appeals about this experience is the opportunity to explore the Tar Pits on a Segway, which makes covering more ground than walking, while adding a sense of playful energy. The knowledgeable guides, like Jose, make the experience engaging, sharing insider insights about the fossils, the history of the area, and even some Hollywood connection stories. However, a key consideration is that you’ll need a decent level of balance and comfort with riding a Segway, plus be prepared for weather that can vary.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, history enthusiasts, and families with children aged 8 and above. If you’re keen to combine outdoor activity with educational content, and enjoy unique photo ops, this could be your ideal Los Angeles experience. Just remember, it’s not a traditional museum visit — it’s active, fun, and packed with surprises.

Key Points

• Innovative Experience: Combines Segway riding with a guided tour of LA’s famous La Brea Tar Pits.
• Educational & Fun: Learn about prehistoric mammals like mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves, with chances for great photos.
• Expert Guides: Our review highlights guides like Jose, whose local knowledge and friendly approach make the experience memorable.
• Accessibility & Practicalities: Suitable for ages 8+ with proper safety equipment, but requires a basic level of fitness and balance.
• Value for Money: At $169, it offers a unique way to see a major LA attraction with included safety gear and bottled water.
• Convenience: The tour lasts around two hours, with flexible morning or afternoon departure options.

Heading into the La Brea Tar Pits on a Segway is a playful way to connect with Los Angeles’ ancient past. Unlike traditional visits that involve static exhibits, this tour gets you moving, offering a dynamic perspective of the site and its surroundings. It’s a refreshing alternative that combines sightseeing, learning, and exercise, making it a noteworthy addition to any LA itinerary.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Central LA and a Brief Orientation

The adventure begins at “Another Side Of Los Angeles Tours,” located at 1080 S La Cienega Blvd. Here, you’ll receive a quick but thorough Segway safety briefing and operating instructions. This 30-minute orientation is designed to ensure everyone feels confident before hitting the streets. Our guide, Jose, was praised for his patience and clear instructions, which eased any first-timer jitters.

The Ride to the Tar Pits

Once comfortable, you’ll hop onto your Segway and set off toward the La Brea Tar Pits. The route is carefully curated to balance engaging stops with scenic views. As you glide through the neighborhood, you’ll pass by notable LA landmarks like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the Petersen Automotive Museum, and the artistic spectacle of Urban Light, with its vintage streetlamps.

At the Tar Pits: Up Close with Prehistoric Fossils

The main highlight is, of course, the Tar Pits itself. Here, the guide will share stories of how these natural asphalt pools have preserved the bones of mammoths, mastodons, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, North American lions, ground sloths, and even ancient camels. The actual bones, some of which are on display nearby, give a tangible sense of the creatures that roamed North America thousands of years ago.

You’ll see reconstructed Ice Age scenes and pose for photos in front of life-sized models or signage. Reviewers note that the guide’s knowledge about the fossils and the area’s history enriches the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

Additional Stops & Learning Opportunities

The tour also touches on the history of the tar pits—how early settlers used the asphalt for building and fuel, adding a practical layer to the ancient story. Several reviewers appreciated the insights into LA’s development alongside the natural history.

Refreshments & End of Tour

Throughout the ride, bottled water and small snacks are provided, which come in handy during the 2-hour adventure. The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a well-rounded, engaging experience of LA’s geological and cultural history.

The guides, particularly Jose, get high praise for their local knowledge and friendly approach. As one reviewer mentioned, Jose pointed out hidden gems in Beverly Hills and explained film industry processes from an insider’s perspective, all while making the journey fun and informative. It’s this blend of expertise and enthusiasm that elevates the experience.

The stunning views of LA’s architectural and cultural landmarks from the Segway add a layer of visual delight. On top of that, the photo opportunities at the Tar Pits and near historic LA icons help travelers capture memorable moments.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Group Size

At $169 per person, this tour offers quite a bit of value. You’re not just paying for an average sightseeing trip, but for an active, guided adventure that covers both history and city sights in a fun way. The duration of about two hours is enough to explore without feeling rushed, and the group size is capped at 100, ensuring a personalized experience.

However, note that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point. The activity operates rain or shine, so be prepared for weather changes and dress appropriately.

Accessibility & Considerations

The tour is suitable for ages 8 and up, with minors 8-15 requiring parental supervision and waivers signed by guardians. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain physical limitations, as balance and basic fitness are needed to ride a Segway comfortably. The maximum weight limit is 250 lbs, which is standard for this kind of activity.

This Segway tour of the La Brea Tar Pits is ideal for adventurers who enjoy active outings and want a different way to experience LA’s history. It’s especially suited for families, curious travelers, and those looking for a behind-the-scenes perspective on Los Angeles’ past.

If you’re a history buff or simply love interactive experiences, this tour offers a memorable way to see one of LA’s most iconic sites. The knowledgeable guides, particularly Jose, make the experience both educational and fun, providing insights you won’t get from static exhibits.

For travelers who prefer a relaxed, museum-only experience, this might be too energetic. But for those who enjoy outdoor activities combined with storytelling, this tour hits all the right notes—and does so in a way that’s engaging and visually stimulating.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate, provided they have parental approval and are comfortable riding a Segway. Minors 8-15 need a parent present to sign waivers and accompany them.

What should I wear?
Dressing in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Since you’ll be outdoors, consider layers and sun protection. Closed-toe shoes are essential for safety.

Is the tour physically demanding?
While it’s not physically strenuous, you do need a decent level of fitness and balance to ride a Segway comfortably. Climbing stairs is minimal but may be necessary at some points.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the orientation and riding time.

Are safety helmets provided?
Yes, helmets and safety equipment are included as part of the tour.

What happens in case of rain?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly. You may get a little wet, but the guides will advise on safety and comfort.

What landmarks are visible during the ride?
You’ll see LA landmarks like LACMA, Urban Light, and the Petersen Automotive Museum from a unique perspective, along with the historic Tar Pits themselves.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant travelers?
Yes, pregnant women are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, and it’s a great way for families to explore LA together while learning about its prehistoric past.

The La Brea Tar Pits Tour by Segway offers a lively, educational experience that’s perfect for active travelers wanting to explore LA’s history in a fun and memorable way. With knowledgeable guides, scenic rides past iconic landmarks, and unique access to one of the world’s most famous fossil sites, this tour packs a punch for those ready to add a bit of adventure to their LA trip.

Ideal for families, history lovers, and anyone seeking an engaging outdoor activity, this tour balances entertainment with education. Just make sure you’re comfortable on a Segway, prepared for weather changes, and ready for a journey into the past that’s as lively as it is informative.